Loss of Family Functions in Modern Industrial Societies
TITLE
Explain why there has been a loss of family functions in modern industrial societies.
ESSAY
Title: The Loss of Family Functions in Modern Industrial Societies: Understanding the Sociological Perspectives
Introduction:
Families have traditionally been viewed as the cornerstone of society, responsible for various social functions such as socialization, care, support, and reproduction. However, in modern industrial societies, there has been a noticeable shift in the role and functions of families. This essay examines various sociological perspectives to understand why there has been a loss of family functions in contemporary society.
Decline in the Nuclear Family:
One prominent explanation for the loss of family functions is the decline in the nuclear family structure. Historically, the nuclear family (composed of two parents and their children) has been considered the ideal family form. However, as this family form becomes less prevalent, many sociologists argue that essential family functions are being lost. The emergence of diverse family forms, such as lone-parent families and cohabiting couples, has challenged the traditional roles and functions of families.
The New Right Perspective:
The New Right perspective attributes the loss of family functions to the increasing diversity in family forms. According to this view, the rise of non-traditional family structures, such as single-parent families and a decline in marriage rates, has led to a breakdown in the ability of families to fulfill their traditional functions. The New Right advocates for a return to traditional family values and structures to restore the lost functions of the family.
Feminist Perspective:
Feminist sociologists argue that the role of women in society has greatly impacted the functions of the family. With the rise of feminism and women's liberation movements, women have increasingly entered the workforce, challenging traditional gender roles within the family. This shift has resulted in a loss of the "natural" housewife role for women and has also affected children's upbringing. Feminists advocate for gender equality within the family and society, which can potentially redefine family functions.
Socialization and Social Control:
While the family has historically been the primary institution for socialization and social control, other institutions such as education, media, and childcare services are now playing significant roles in shaping individuals. The increased influence of external institutions in these functions has contributed to a loss of family exclusivity in these areas.
Education and Work:
In modern industrial societies, the family is no longer solely responsible for educating and finding work for children. The education system has taken over the role of education, and children are encouraged to stay in the education system rather than enter the workforce at an early age. This shift has led to a diminishing role for families in guiding their children's educational and career paths.
Dysfunctional Families:
Research has shown that families can sometimes be dysfunctional, characterized by issues such as domestic abuse, conflict, tension, and violence. This has led some sociologists to question whether traditional family functions are always fulfilled within such family dynamics. Dysfunctional families highlight the complexities and challenges families face in fulfilling their expected functions.
Conclusion:
The loss of family functions in modern industrial societies is a complex phenomenon influenced by various sociological perspectives. The decline in the nuclear family, changing gender roles, increased diversity in family structures, and the rise of external institutions all contribute to the shifting roles and functions of families. Understanding these dynamics is essential for addressing the changing nature of families and their functions in contemporary society.
SUBJECT
SOCIOLOGY
LEVEL
O level and GCSE
NOTES
Explanation of the loss of family functions in modern industrial societies:
- Decline in the nuclear family: The decreasing prevalence of the traditional nuclear family structure has resulted in the belief among many sociologists that family functions are being lost.
- The New Right perspective: The New Right argues that the diversification of family forms, such as the increase in lone parent families and decline in marriage, has led to a loss of family functions, as these new forms may not be able to fulfill the traditional roles effectively.
- Feminism's impact: Some sociologists suggest that feminism has contributed to a loss of family functions by encouraging women to pursue careers outside the home, potentially depriving them of their traditional roles as housewives and impacting children's well-being.
- Role of socialization and social control: While the family continues to play a significant role in primary socialization and social control, other forces such as education, media, and nannies are also becoming influential in shaping individuals.
- Education and work responsibilities: The family's role in educating and finding employment for children has diminished, with these functions now largely carried out by the education system, leading to a shift in priorities for children towards academic achievement over entering the workforce.
- Dysfunctional families: Research highlighting dysfunctional family dynamics, including domestic abuse, conflict, and violence, has raised questions about whether the family still serves a clear function in modern society.
- Feminist perspectives: Some feminists argue that the pursuit of independence and equality by women has led to a loss of family functions, as women reject traditional gender roles and seek autonomy within relationships, exemplified by the rise of DINK families (Double Income, No Kids) and singlehood.
- Reproduction function: Societal changes like secularization and feminism have altered attitudes towards reproduction, allowing women to have children outside of wedlock or opt not to have children at all, leading to a loss of the family's traditional function of reproduction.
- Elderly care: With the decline of extended families and the rise of care homes, the responsibility for caring for the elderly has shifted away from the family, signaling a loss of this traditional family function.
Various factors, including shifts in societal norms, changing gender roles, and evolving family structures, have contributed to the loss of traditional family functions in modern industrial societies.